By Desire Tshuma
MASVINGO — Journalists from across different media organizations last week toured major development projects in Masvingo Province , witnessing first-hand how investment in mining, energy, tourism and agriculture is transforming communities.
The tour was led by Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Hon. Zhemu Soda and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Nick Mangwana.
The media delegation visited Bikita Minerals, Lake Mutirikwi Hydro Power Station, Great Zimbabwe Visit Center and Triangle Sugar Can Plantation, among other sites, to assess progress on projects being implemented under the Second Republic’s devolution agenda.
Speaking during the tour, Hon. Soda said the visits were meant to allow the media to report accurately on development happening in the provinces.
“We are here so that the media can see for yourselves what is happening on the ground. Government is committed to equitable development. No province should be left behind and Masvingo is showing good progress,” Hon. Soda said.
At Bikita Minerals, one of the world’s largest lithium producers, officials took the team through the processing plant and community projects. The mine has created thousands of jobs and is contributing to Zimbabwe’s $12 billion mining economy target.
“This is more than mining. We are building schools, clinics and roads. Lithium is changing Bikita and the lives of the people here,” Mr Thomas Mufumi , Bikita minerals assistant general manager told journalists.
The delegation then toured Lake Mutirikwi Hydro Power Station, which supplies electricity to the national grid and supports irrigation schemes in the province.
Mr. Mangwana said energy infrastructure was key to unlocking economic growth.
“Power is the engine of development. When we strengthen hydro power like Mutirikwi, we are also strengthening agriculture, industry and jobs for our people,” Mr. Mangwana said.
At Great Zimbabwe, the team toured the Visitors’ Centre— the hub where tourists first arrive to book, get information and eat before touring the local attraction.The $1.5 million site which is still under construction is almost complete .
Official said the centre is being constructed to suit visitor experience and ensure tourism revenue benefits surrounding communities. It houses a booking office, restaurant, craft market, and exhibition area.
“Our heritage must work for the people. Great Zimbabwe is a national asset and with this Visitors’ Centre, tourists are welcomed properly, they learn the history, and they leave with a good experience before touring the monument,” Visitors Center manager said
Mr. Mangwana added:
“First impressions matter in tourism. This centre ensures visitors are comfortable and that locals are employed. That is how we grow tourism and heritage.”
Tourism operators said visitor numbers have been increasing since the centre was upgraded, with more domestic tourists and school groups now visiting.
The final stop was Triangle, where journalists saw progress in sugar production and out-grower schemes that support thousands of farmers. Farmers said government support and private investment had stabilized production and improved livelihoods in the Lowveld.
Journalists on the tour said the experience gave them a better understanding of how devolution funds, public-private partnerships, and private investment are delivering tangible results in Masvingo.
The Ministry of Information said similar media tours will be conducted in other provinces to showcase national development projects and promote factual reporting.
“Let us tell the story of progress. The people deserve to know what is being done in their name,” Minister Soda concluded.